The Museum Embankment (Museumsufer) lines the south bank of the Main River with a string of museums covering everything from fine art and film to architecture, Jewish history and ancient sculpture. Highlights include the Städel Museum with its underground gallery, the German Film Museum, the Museum of Communication and the Jewish Museum. Each August, the embankment hosts the Museum Embankment Festival, one of Europe’s biggest cultural events, with late openings, live music and food stalls along the river.

Tōfuku-ji Temple is one of the oldest and most famous Zen temples in Kyōto for its wonderful and extensive gardens. The original buildings were burnt down but rebuilt faithfully to the original in the 15th century. In 1881, a blazing fire destroyed the Buddha hall, which was never again rebuilt. The complex' main gate is the oldest sanmon in Japan and a National Treasure. Today, the temple welcomes thousands of visitors throughout the year; to make their experience even more unforgettable, it offers regular Zen meditation sessions for beginners (only in Japanese). Note that the temple is overcrowded during autumn as a favourite haunt to witness kōyō (the falling of colourful leaves).

Across the famed Mile High Swinging Bridge lies the wondrous Grandfather Mountain State Park, home to wildlife in its natural habitats and grand alpine trails. Enjoy walking and hiking the mountain while encountering a wealth of photograph opportunities. After exploring the natural splendor, head to The Nature Museum and learn about the region’s history. Grab a tasty treat at Mildred's Grill afterwards, and call it a perfect day.

Banner Elk Stables welcomes families and friends to one of the area's most adored attractions. The guided one-hour tours will lead you over beautiful trails across the high mountains of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the flanks of Beech Mountain. Impressively, some of their horses have worked on popular films such as For Richer or Poorer, Shallow Hal, Cinderella, National Treasure, and more.